Sunday September 14, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — FIFA is weighing whether to block Algeria’s attempt to stage its upcoming World Cup qualifier against Somalia on home soil, a decision that could alter the balance of Group G as Africa’s qualifying campaign nears its conclusion.
Algeria lead the group with 19 points and need only three more from their last two fixtures to seal a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Fennecs had been due to face Somalia in October in what was designated as an Ocean Stars “home” match, but with Somalia lacking a FIFA-approved stadium, the Algerian Football Federation reached an agreement with its Somali counterparts to host the game in Algiers.
That deal has raised questions of competitive fairness. Uganda, four points behind in second place, could lodge a protest, arguing Algeria would effectively play an additional home match in the decisive stage of qualifying. FIFA is understood to be reviewing the arrangement before confirming the venue.
The Ocean Stars have played every qualifier away from Mogadishu, shifting between Uganda, Djibouti, and Morocco due to security issues and because their refurbished national stadium still does not meet FIFA standards. Mogadishu Stadium, returned to Somali control in 2023 and reopened the following year, has endured decades of conflict, Al-Shabab occupation, and even use as a base for African Union troops. In May 2025, Somalia staged the FIFA- and CAF-backed “Legends Peace Tour,” with Samuel Eto’o, Jay-Jay Okocha, and Emmanuel Adebayor, to showcase safety and Somalia’s readiness to rejoin international football, but competitive matches remain barred.
The instability has denied them the chance to build consistency or enjoy home support, leaving a young squad that is reliant on
diaspora talent such as Abdi Sharif and goalkeeper Abdirahman Mohamud Jama without a stable base.
Somalia’s campaign
has already ended in elimination, but the issue resonates more broadly across African football. Smaller federations often depend on ad hoc agreements with host nations, arrangements that can hand a major advantage to opponents in tight qualification races.
For Algeria, the October fixture represents a chance to finish the job before a final-day clash against Uganda. Djamel Belmadi’s side were held to a goalless draw by Guinea in September, delaying their qualification but leaving them in control of the group. Playing Somalia at home would offer not only logistical ease but also the atmosphere of home support as they look to reach their fifth World Cup.
Victory over Somalia would take Algeria to 22 points, beyond the reach of Uganda or Mozambique. Uganda, meanwhile, are clinging to hopes of taking the race to the final round after their 2-0 win over Somalia earlier this month. Uganda and Mozambique are level on points, separated only by goal difference, and both still chasing the playoff lifeline. Guinea need a perfect October to stay alive.
The controversy is not confined to Group G. Egypt, leaders of Group A, are lobbying to stage their “away” tie against Djibouti in Cairo because Djibouti also lack a FIFA- and CAF-certified venue. With group winners qualifying automatically and the four best runners-up heading to the playoffs, the location of such fixtures can carry major implications for nations chasing the final slots